7 pounds of K2 seized from Rusk County convenience store

RUSK COUNTY —
On Tuesday, February 7, 2012, the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division executed a search warrant at Bunny’s Convenience Store, located at 10118 Hwy 64, in Turnertown, Texas. Narcotic officers discovered and seized approximately 7 pounds of Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2) inside the business.

At approximately 5:30 pm, Narcotic Officers entered the store and discovered approximately 7 pounds of Synthetic Cannabinoids, commonly known as” K2”, in a private room in the back of the store. The street value of the substance is approximately $13,000. A 3 gram package ranges from $25 to $26 per pack.

During the search officers discovered “K2” in the purse of an employee of the business, Candis Nicole Battise, 32, of Henderson, who was arrested on scene for possession of controlled substance. She was escorted to the Rusk County Jail. Battise was arraigned by Justice of the Peace, Precinct 5, Judge Joe Sorrells. She was charged with a Class B Misdemeanor for Possession of a Controlled Substance, bond set at $3,000. The names of the owners of the business have not been released at this time.

Narcotic Officers stated this investigation is ongoing and other arrest are expected upon the completion of the investigation. One of the officers stated the effects of Synthetic Cannabinoids (K2) are more severe than Marijuana (THC), to include hallucinations. The substance contains a list of chemicals that have been outlawed by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). If anyone has knowledge of K2 being sold in other places surrounding Rusk County call Rusk County Crime Stoppers at (903)655-TIPS(8477).

The Texas Legislature passed a bill effective back on September 1, 2011, designating certain synthetic cannabinoids as a controlled substance. It is a Penalty Group 2, the degree of the offense depends on the amount (by weight), including adulterants or dilatants.

Sheriff Danny R. Pirtle stated this was the result of a well executed investigation by the Narcotics Division and commends the officers for a job well done.